Jacquard vs Plain Elastic: Choosing the Right Option for Fashion and Apparel Design

Elastic narrow fabrics are essential components in fashion and apparel design, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Two popular options, Jacquard elastic and plain elastic narrow fabric, each bring unique qualities to the table. Understanding their differences is key to selecting the right elastic for your design needs, whether it’s for branding, performance, or everyday wear.

What is Jacquard Elastic?

Jacquard elastic is an elevated option for designers looking to incorporate intricate details into their garments. It features woven and knit patterns or logos that are directly integrated into the elastic, offering a premium, textured look that stands out.

Key Features:

• Customizable with patterns, logos, or text, making it ideal for branding.
• Premium appearance with a distinctive, textured finish.
• Highly durable, maintaining its shape even under repeated use.

Best Uses in Apparel:

• Sportswear Branding: Logos and designs on elastic bands for a professional, polished look.
• Lingerie and Activewear: Adds decorative flair while retaining function and comfort.
• Fashion Accessories: Perfect for statement belts, headbands, or other bold accents.

What is Plain Elastic Narrow Fabric?

Plain elastic narrow fabric is the go-to choice for simple, functional applications. Unlike Jacquard elastic, it features a smooth surface without patterns, offering a versatile and understated appearance.

Key Features:

• Uniform texture and solid color, ideal for blending into garments.
• Lightweight and flexible for everyday wear.
• Affordable and widely available for high-volume production.

Best Uses in Apparel:

• Waistbands, Cuffs, and Sleeves: Provides reliable stretch for functional areas.
• Everyday Basics such as back neck tape: Used in underwear, T-shirts, and other essentials for comfort and durability.
• Clean, Minimalist Designs: Ideal when the focus is on simplicity and functionality.

Jacquard vs Plain Elastic: Key Differences

We’ve identified three key areas of difference between jacquard and plain elastics. In no particular order they are:

Visual Appeal
If your goal is adding decorative, eye-catching functional components, then Jacquard elastics are your choice. On the other hand, if your design calls for a simple, clean finish that blends functional components into your overall design, then go with plain elastic tapes.

Cost
For budget-sensitive projects, plain elastic is the more cost-effective option. It’s widely available and easy to produce in large volumes. Jacquard elastic, however, typically comes at a higher price point due to the intricate weaving process and customizability, making it an investment for designs requiring premium branding or decorative touches.

Applications
When it comes to applications, Jacquard elastic excels in visible, branded, or decorative uses—think sportswear waistbands, lingerie straps, or statement accessories. Plain elastic is the go-to choice for hidden or purely functional components like waistbands, cuffs, and casualwear, where simplicity and functionality are key.

The following are some of our most common implementations for ECI’s plain and jacquard elastic narrow fabrics: 
Jacquard: 

• ECI#99071-18 : Woven jacquard elastic tape with elegant flower pattern.
• ECI#9A700-60R : Turquoise jacquard elastic tape with logo.
• ECI#91143-32 : Dual finish, matte and shiny, elastic tape with logo.
• ECI#99D75-19M : Shoulder bra strap featuring delicate flower design.

Plain: 

• ECI#33A53-10R : Decorative elastic tape in gold color.
• ECI#33285-12 : Binding tape in lime purple.
• ECI#33917-19 : Fold over elastic tape in classic black.
• ECI#88009-10 : Knit binding tape with good elongation properties in cream color.
• ECI# 77045-9S : Binding tape for lingerie in light pink color.

How to Decide Between Jacquard and Plain Elastic

As the above applications indicate, choosing the right elastic depends on the specific goals of your design. Here’s a quick guide:

• Purpose: If the elastic is meant to stand out visually, go with Jacquard. For hidden or purely functional elements, plain elastic is better.
• Budget: If cost is a concern, plain elastic offers great value. For premium designs or branding needs, the investment in Jacquard is worth it.
• Target Audience: Consider the preferences of the end-user. Luxury or performance-focused consumers may expect Jacquard’s elevated appearance.
• Design Goals: Does the garment benefit from added texture and branding? If so, Jacquard is the way to go. If simplicity is your aim, stick with plain elastic.

With decades of expertise in elastic manufacturing, ECI Elastic offers tailored solutions for both Jacquard and plain elastic narrow fabric. Please visit our catalog to explore our custom jacquard, versatile plain elastics, all created with sustainability at heart.